Finding God in the Work of Our Hands: A Chapel Reborn in Hope

On November 11, 2025, the Mary Help of Christians Chapel at the New Bilibid Prison Medium Security Camp opened its doors once more. Renewed, blessed, and made beautiful through the quiet labor of many hearts. What began as a dream in November of last year slowly took shape through the generosity of benefactors, the steady presence of PJPS staff and volunteers, and the humble craftsmanship of Persons Deprived of Liberty who offered their hands to build something sacred.

Like many journeys in the Ignatian way, this renovation was more than a project, it became a prayer. Each beam lifted, each wall restored, and each brushstroke on the Stations of the Cross became an act of reconciliation and hope. Under the guidance of Fr. Jason K. Dy, SJ, the PDL artists reflected deeply as they painted: every color chosen, every line drawn, was offered with prayerful intention. Their art speaks silently of longing, healing, and the God who continues to shape beauty from brokenness.

During the blessing, presided over by Most Rev. Elias Lumayog Ayuban, Jr., CMF, DD, JCD, Most Rev. Buenaventura M. Famadico, D.D., and concelebrated by Fr. Firmo N. Bargayo, Jr., SJ, Fr. Erwin H. Arandia, SJ, Fr. Jason K. Dy, SJ, and Rev. David Emmanuel Glover, the chapel felt like a vessel overflowing with gratitude. PJPS staff, volunteers, benefactors, and the Daughters of Virgin Mary Immaculate – San Pedro came together not only to witness a blessing but to celebrate a deeper truth: that God dwells in every act of kindness, in every shared mission, and in every person seeking a path toward new life.

May this renewed chapel stand as a reminder that grace builds slowly. Through collaboration, through generosity, and through the quiet transformation of hearts. Truly, in this place, we found God in the midst of all things.

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